Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2020 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence, in addition to local and state accolades.
Joseph Himon of
Pulaski Academy (Little Rock) is the 2020 MaxPreps Arkansas High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound junior totaled 2,993 all-purpose yards to help the Bruins go 13-0 and win the Class 5A state championship.
Himon's remarkable yardage totals included 1,925 yards on the ground with 23 rushing touchdowns and another 1,068 receiving with nine scores.
In a 64-27 win over Little Rock Christian Academy in the title game, Himon ran 16 times for 76 yards and three touchdowns while catching six passes for 129 yards and another score.
Himon topped 300 all-purpose yards in three games – Sept. 25 against Watson Chapel (323), Oct. 23 in a regular season meeting against Little Rock Christian Academy (331) and Dec. 4 in the semifinals against Wynne (318). In another contest against Tyler Legacy of Texas, he reeled in 18 receptions for 175 yards.
According to 247Sports, Himon has already earned seven offers including Kansas, Louisville and Memphis.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released Jan. 29.
Joseph Himon evades a defender during a Sept. 11 game against Ravenwood.
Photo by Bryan Metz
